Time no longer stands still at the clock tower along Strand Beach as the local landmark has been given a new lease on life!
The historic clock tower, which had been dormant for over a decade, has been meticulously restored thanks to the efforts of local attorney Daantjie Malan, in collaboration with Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) CEO Francois Meyer.
Malan, who is involved with the Strand Business Improvement District (BID) and Future Strand, took the initiative to revive the clock tower. “It was an eyesore and we knew we had to do something about it,” he explained.
With the support of Ward 83 councillor Carl Punt, Malan approached Meyer, who generously donated a state-of-the-art digital clock and installation services.
“Golden Arrow buses have always been the only buses permitted to operate via Beach Road and, as such, it felt fitting to assist with the upgrade of the iconic clock tower,” said GABS spokesperson Bronwen Dyke-Beyer.
“We were able to make use of our signature display technologies and skills to provide two digital time displays, which are driven by a master clock located in the base of the structure. Our Estates Department was also able to install a protective door as a security and safety feature.
“The new digital clock will be easier to maintain as adjustments to the circuit are made at ground level, rather than by having to remove the clock face at a six-metre height. The digital clock has the added benefit of increased visibility, particularly at night, and the installation offers comprehensive protection against the elements, including double-sealing and weatherproof boxes.”
The clock tower is also often referred to as the Peace Clock and was erected as a project of the former Strand Rotary Anns in 1994.
Anita Miller, who was a Rotary Ann at the time and involved with the project, said that she is absolutely delighted that the clock is ticking once again.
“This iconic landmark is loved by all, and the fact that it’s working once again is a fantastic testament to what it means to the community,” she said.
Danie Pienaar, the architect of the clock tower back in the 1990s, said the restoration of the clock has been a point of discussion by concerned community members for many years.
He added that the restoration has changed negative perceptions of locals, as everyone is rejoicing at the return of the landmark.
“The clock can now again serve as a meeting place for so many people and the phrase ‘meet you at the clock tower’ will once again resonate among all the people who love the beach and loveliness of the atmosphere,” said Pienaar.
The restoration process took six months, as the team worked diligently to source the correct parts for the digital clock. The clock tower has now been reconnected to the electricity grid and is expected to lose only five seconds per year. However, regular maintenance will ensure its continued accuracy.
In addition, the iconic clock tower will soon undergo a complete facelift, with well-known painter Pierre Volschenk set to repaint the structure in its original colours.
Malan and his team have their sights set on further improvements in Strand. “We’re still dreaming of achieving Blue Flag status for our beach and repairing the jetty,” he said. “We’re committed to making Strand a vibrant and attractive destination.”
Asked to comment, Punt extended a word of thanks to Meyer and GABS for the generous donation of the electronic clock, as well as mechatronics engineer Wimpie Greyvenstein and Riedewaan Davids, who handled the installation.
“Your commitment and contribution to Strand will be remembered and appreciated every time we look at the time,” Punt said.
“Also ‘thank you’ to Daantjie Malan for your time and effort to get this project up and running.”
